start a conversation with

USAGE SUMMARY

"start a conversation with" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to open a conversation with someone. For example: "To get to know the people at my new job better, I decided to start a conversation with my colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Allen could start a conversation with anyone.

The New York Times

How do I start a conversation with my boss about his perception of my performance?

The New York Times

He tried, unsuccessfully, to start a conversation with a tired uncommunicative woman seated next to him.

The New Yorker

Baseball trivia is a dialect — you can start a conversation with anyone with it".

The New York Times - Sports

Today, on even a short flight, someone will start a conversation with me.

The New York Times

I then played an old philosopher trying to start a conversation with a beautiful stranger.

The New York Times

Start a conversation with the English-speaking people at the next table in a cafe.

The New York Times - Travel

Those companies can start a conversation with those candidates.

TechCrunch

I have never regretted that instant decision to start a conversation with her.

Science Magazine

If the E-commerce Website is visited by a user, the talking head will start a conversation with the user.

EURASIP Journal on Audio, Speech, and Music Processing

It's like something to start a conversation with.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To build rapport, "start a conversation with" a genuine compliment or observation relevant to the context.

Common error

Avoid using overly formal or abrupt greetings when trying to "start a conversation with" someone in a casual setting. Instead, opt for a more relaxed and friendly approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start a conversation with" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the initiation of a communicative exchange. It serves to introduce the action of beginning a dialogue or discussion with someone. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

32%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

17%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "start a conversation with" is a versatile and commonly used expression for initiating dialogue, confirmed by Ludwig as both grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. Predominantly found in Wiki and News & Media sources, it maintains a neutral register, making it appropriate for both casual and professional environments. For successful interactions, consider using open-ended questions and genuine observations to build rapport, while avoiding overly formal or abrupt openings. Alternative phrases like "initiate a dialogue with" or "engage in conversation with" offer similar meanings with slight variations in formality or emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate dialogue with

Emphasizes a more formal and structured exchange compared to a simple conversation.

begin speaking with

Highlights the act of starting to talk, useful when the initial interaction is the focus.

engage in conversation with

Suggests a more involved and reciprocal interaction.

open a discussion with

Implies a slightly more structured or serious conversation.

strike up a conversation with

Conveys a sense of spontaneity and casualness in beginning a conversation.

commence communication with

A very formal way to express starting a conversation, suitable for professional settings.

make initial contact with

Focuses on the very first interaction, often used in business or professional contexts.

establish rapport with

Highlights building a connection and understanding from the beginning of the interaction.

break the ice with

Refers to initiating a conversation with the goal of easing tension or awkwardness.

get a dialogue going with

Suggests initiating a continuous exchange of information or ideas.

FAQs

How can I "start a conversation with" someone I don't know?

You can "start a conversation with" someone you don't know by asking an open-ended question related to your shared environment or a common interest. For instance, you might ask about a book they're reading or comment on an event happening nearby.

What's a good way to "start a conversation with" someone at a networking event?

A good way to "start a conversation with" someone at a networking event is to introduce yourself and ask about their role or interests within the industry. You could say something like, "Hi, I'm [Your Name]. What brings you to the event today?"

How to "start a conversation with" someone online?

To "start a conversation with" someone online, consider referencing something from their profile or a recent post. Personalize your message to show you've taken the time to learn about them, rather than sending a generic greeting. You could also try alternatives such as "reach out to" or "connect with" them.

What are some alternatives to "start a conversation with"?

Alternatives to "start a conversation with" include "initiate a dialogue with", "engage in conversation with", or "strike up a conversation with". The best choice depends on the context and your desired level of formality.